RuPaul’s ‘Drag Race’ Star Sahara Davenport Dies at 27

News

One of America’s promising drag superstars Antoine Ashley, also known as Sahara Davenport, has passed away. Ashley, 27, was one of 11 contestants competing in RuPaul’s “Drag Race” during season two in 2010.

“Logo is profoundly saddened by the passing of Antoine Ashley who fans around the world knew and loved as Sahara Davenport. He was an amazing artist and entertainer who’ll be deeply missed by his Logo family. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, especially his boyfriend Karl, in their time of need,” the network said in a statement.

According to People, the classically-trained dancer began performing in drag while attending Southern Methodist University in Dallas, eventually jetting to New York and appearing in drag at various bars and nightclubs.

In addition to his “Drag Race” stint, Ashley has appeared in 15 Films About Madonna, Magnificent Obsessions and One Life to Live. He even released a single, “Go Off” earlier this year.

RuPaul took to Twitter Tuesday morning to express his condolences. “Shocked & heartbroken over @SaharaDavenport,” he tweeted. “Never occurred to me that we’d ever lose one of my girls. I see them as immortal.”